Sciatica

Sciatica Treatment in Newport Beach

Sciatica is a set of symptoms caused by compression of one of the two sciatic nerves. This causes inflammation in the nerve, leading to pain and discomfort. This condition is quite a common reason for leg pain pain and lower back pain.

Causes

In most cases, a herniated disc in the lower back is the typical cause of irritation of a sciatic nerve.

Symptoms
The symptoms can cause weakness and pain that can be felt anywhere along the entire length of the sciatic nerve. This condition can be experienced anywhere on the lower back area, all the way down to the feet. Sciatica can be felt throughout the lower body in various types, which includes:

  • Tingling
  • Numbness
  • Constant change in sensation
  • Burning sensation
  • Weak muscles
  • Pain that lasts for a long period
  • Pain in feet soles
  • Pain caused by coughing or sneezing
Diagnosis

To diagnose sciatica, your Newport Beach orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Todd Peters will perform a complete and thorough physical examination as well as a medical history check. He may also request X-Rays, MRIs, and CT scans to better assess your case.

X-Rays – A type of quick imaging process using electromagnectic waves to better show Dr. Peters bones of the body to pinpoint possible sources of pain.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – This type of imaging uses radiology to show Dr. Peters the soft tissues of the body like muscles, disks, nerves, and the spinal cord.

Computerized tomography (CT) – CT scans are X-ray scans taken from various angles to create a cross-section of bones and soft tissues of the body.

Treatment
Sciatica usually heals on its own after a few days of rest and can be treated with non-surgical and conservative treatment procedures. It does not take long before patients could return to their normal physical activities once the inflammation in the sciatic nerve has reduced.

Conservative types of treatment includes rest, medication, injections and physical therapy. However, in more severe cases, doctors may recommend minimally invasive spine surgery.

Dr. Peters will use non-surgical treatments such as:

  • Steroid/Epidural injections
  • Acupuncture
  • Pain medication

Dr. Todd Peters specializes in minimally invasive orthopaedic treatment of Sciatica. For appointments, please call (949) 383-4182 or Contact Us.